Chronicle Editor
Rumbidzai Mbewe, Sunday News Correspondent
The construction of a school in Gwayi, Matabeleland North province by the community has gathered pace with one dormitory having been completed.
The construction of a teachers’ cottage has also started, with work at foundation level. Community members from wards 24 and 25 have taken it upon themselves to bring alive the dream of having Gwayi Secondary School constructed.
Villagers said community members residing at the former Gwayi River Hotel area have self-mobilised to give back to the community through labour and donations towards the construction of the school.
So far, 14 000 bricks have been donated by different households led by church leaders at their respective areas. The community has surpassed their target which was to make 10 000 bricks. The school site is at the centre of Gwayi Business Centre, and it will accommodate pupils from ward 25 areas like Hangano.
Since time immemorial, the Gwayi pupils have been using an old house as school premises. One of the residents of Gwayi, Pastor Maxwell Shereni expressed happiness with the developments as the community was showing willingness and unity in achieving their goal.
“The community and churches in Gwayi are happy with the progress that has been done since we engaged on how we can work together to have a school built for our children. We are still appealing to other people to help us in building the school especially some of our members who are now in the diaspora,” he said.
Pastor Shereni said the community does not have a secondary school and children have been learning from one of the dilapidated buildings, which was not safe for them. He said this has been a challenge for learners during winter and rainy season.
“It is 16 years now since the school project has been in the pipeline but now one can see some positive movements which are spearheaded by the community. We hope the work the community is doing now will attract more donations from other well-wishers,” he said.
Caritas, a non-governmental Christian organisation has constructed one block of classrooms. – @rumbie_mbewe
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter